Tiruchirapalli: The power situation in Tamil Nadu was improving and the weekly power holiday for industries, enforced a few months back, would soon be lifted, state Electricity Minister N Veerasamy has said.

The power situation had improved in the state since wind mills had started generating energy from April 27. Normally the wind energy would be available only from the second fortnight of May every year, he told reporters here yesterday.

The present generation was to the tune of 1,000 to 1,500 MW and hence the state need not purchase power from neighbouring states, he said expressing hope that the situation would become comfortable by May 15.

Replying to a volley of questions on frequent power cuts in cities like Tiruchirappalli, Madurai and Coimbatore, he said the state required over Rs.2,000 crore to install additional transformers and feeders.

He also said concessions such as VAT exemption extended on furnace oil extended in lieu of power holidays would be withdrawn. Besides, industrial units drawing excessive power would be penalised.
Source : PTI